Overview of CAT Exam Pattern
CAT Exam Pattern:- The CAT exam is conducted annually by the IIMs on a rotational basis. The test is a computer-based exam (CBT) with a mix of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and non-MCQs (TITA – Type In The Answer). The structure of the exam is designed to assess the candidate’s managerial aptitude in three major sections.
Click here :- CAT Exam Syllabus in Detail
Key Highlights of the CAT Exam Pattern:
- Exam Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Duration: 120 minutes (2 hours)
- Total Number of Questions: 68
- Number of Sections: 3
- Marking Scheme: +3 for correct answer, -1 for incorrect MCQ, no negative marking for TITA
Detailed Section-Wise Breakdown of CAT Exam
1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Total Questions: 24
- Time Allotted: 40 minutes
- Question Types:
- Reading Comprehension (RC) – Around 16 questions
- Verbal Ability (VA) – Around 8 questions
- Topics Covered:
- Reading comprehension passages from various genre
- Para jumbles
- Sentence completion
- Para Summary
Strategy Tip: Focus on improving reading speed and comprehension ability, as this section demands a Good command over reading between the lines.
2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Total Questions: 22
- Time Allotted: 40 minutes
- Question Types:
- Data Interpretation (DI) – Around 3 or 4 SET
- Logical Reasoning (LR) – Around 1 or 2 SET
- Topics Covered:
- Graph-based problems (Pie charts, Bar Graphs, Line Charts)
- Mix Sets involving both DI & LR
- Caselets
- Tables
- Seating Arrangements
- Puzzles
Strategy Tip: Practice solving complex DI and LR sets under time constraints to improve accuracy.
3. Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
- Total Questions: 22
- Time Allotted: 40 minutes
- Question Types:
- MCQs and TITA-based numerical problems
- Topics Covered:
- Arithmetic (Percentage, Profit & Loss, Ratio & Proportion etc.)
- Algebra (Quadratic Equations, Logarithms, Progressions etc.)
- Geometry & Mensuration (Triangles, Circles, Coordinate Geometry)
- Modern Mathematics (Probability, Permutations & Combinations)
- Number System (Divisibility Rules, HCF & LCM)
Strategy Tip: Strengthen basics and practice shortcut methods to enhance calculation speed.
CAT Marking Scheme
- Correct Answer: +3 marks
- Incorrect Answer (MCQ): -1 mark
- Incorrect Answer (TITA): No negative marking
- Unanswered Questions: No penalty
This marking system encourages calculated risk-taking while ensuring accuracy in answering TITA questions.
Read This Also:- CAT Percentile vs Marks
Time Management Strategy for CAT Exam
Effective time management is key to scoring well in CAT 2025. Follow these sectional strategies:
- VARC: Prioritize easy passages first. Gain hands-on experience in different genre Articles. Avoid spending too much time on a single RC.
- DILR: Identify solvable sets early. Aim to solve 2-3 sets accurately.
- QA: Attempt familiar topics first. Avoid time-consuming calculations in first go.
Practicing with mock tests and previous years’ papers is crucial for refining your time management skills.
CAT 2025 Exam Day Guidelines
- Carry a valid ID proof along with the admit card.
- Reach the exam center a minimum of 90 minutes prior to the exam.
- Follow the COVID-19 guidelines (if applicable).
- Maintain composure and confidence throughout the test.
Conclusion
The CAT exam pattern remains consistent but demands a smart preparation strategy and Guidance. Aspirants must practice extensively, analyze their strengths and weaknesses, and refine their time management skills to crack the exam successfully.